Live Nation CEO defends monopoly claims in high-stakes antitrust trial
Michael Rapino, the CEO of Live Nation, has taken the stand in a Manhattan federal court as part of an ongoing antitrust trial. The case centres on accusations that the company illegally monopolised live concerts across the U.S. Rapino defended the firm's practices while facing tough questions about its business tactics.
The trial follows a settlement between Live Nation and the federal government in March. However, more than half of the 39 states involved—along with the District of Columbia—have refused to drop their claims and continue pursuing legal action.
Rapino testified that Live Nation had brought much-needed 'business professionalism' to the live events industry. He denied allegations that the company threatened Barclays Center after it selected a rival ticketing provider over Ticketmaster. Under questioning, he also admitted that while Live Nation had never turned down a request from Adele, it had blocked a third-party firm from selling tickets to her concerts for free.
The CEO struggled to recall a 2016 email in which he reportedly raised concerns over excessive ticketing fees for an Alabama Shakes show. Meanwhile, evidence emerged of a Live Nation employee boasting about hiking concert parking fees, allegedly saying, *'That's how we do'* and *'robbing them blind baby.'* Rapino acknowledged the incident, stating the company was reviewing the matter and that the employee had apologised. The trial stems from a lawsuit originally filed by the Department of Justice and state attorneys general. Though federal authorities reached a settlement with Live Nation earlier this year, a majority of states rejected the agreement. Their lawsuits remain active, keeping the pressure on the entertainment giant.
The outcome of the trial could reshape how Live Nation operates in the U.S. concert market. With most states still pushing forward with their cases, the company faces prolonged legal challenges. Rapino's testimony will be closely examined as proceedings continue in the coming weeks.
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